Syntegon upgraded its Sigpack TTM cartoner platform with lock-style technology for glue-free carton forming. With the latest installment, trays can be produced from 100% recyclable materials since they do not require any further gluing steps to securely close the carton. By eliminating adhesives during forming, maintenance efforts are also significantly reduced, Syntegon explains.
The TTM platform allows the control of the forming process: cartons or trays are precisely formed, which facilitates the lock-style process, where carton blanks are closed directly instead of being glued. Eliminating the use of glue makes the packaging easier to recycle and saves costs. The conventional gluing process uses glue devices, which result in glue residues and thin glue strings, also known as angel hair, which accumulate in the machine and must be removed regularly. The lock-style process eliminates this maintenance effort as well.
There are two options when integrating the lock-style technology: with a new TTM topload cartoner, or retrofitting it into existing machines. “The retrofit kit enables the TTM platform to form both glue-less and conventionally sealed cartons, which simplifies the switch to sustainable packaging concepts. In addition, the changeover from conventional gluing to the lock-style process takes no more time than a regular format change,” Syngeon explains.
“The lock-style technology is currently very popular with companies who want to make their production more sustainable,” said Espen Mile, Product Manager, Secondary Packaging at Syntegon. “In fact, we can already look back on almost 80 years of experience with glue-free carton forming. Back then, the founder of Kliklok, a Syntegon company, invented the first lock-style cartons. And we have been developing our expertise further ever since.”
“The upgrade to the TTM platform ensures a gradual switch to sustainable and future-proof solutions. Our lock-style technology addition supports our customers in saving resources – even beyond the use of alternative packaging materials,” Miles explains.
Photo: Syntegon
